Sedona, Flagstaff, Verde ValleyA True Hiker’s Paradise!

Hiking is one of the most popular recreational activities for visitors coming to the red rock region of Sedona, Arizona especially in the Spring. Visitors head out to explore the many trails in the Coconino National Forest, Sedona, Verde Valley and trails that explore the Mogollon Rim. They love to get out there and shake off the winter season, stretch their legs and take in the beauty of the red rocks against the crystal blue spring sky and take in all the desert flora and fauna of the area. You will find trails for beginners through more seasoned, and serious, hikers throughout Sedona, the Coconino National Forest, and the Verde Valley. We of course have a few of our favorites to share with you, and I am sure you will find a few favorites of your own. Below you will find information on the Coconino National Forest, our favorite Sedona hikes and some tips and resources to help you plan your hike.

Our favorite hikes and places to hike in the Sedona area

Coconino National ForestThe Coconino National Forest, one of six National Forest in Arizona, offers on of the largest varieties of landscape and beauty from the towering red rocks of Sedona to Ponderosa Pine Forests, to alpine tundra. Whatever difficulty level of hike or scenic wonders you want to experience you will find it here. Recreation and hiking information is divided into three Ranger Districts, just click on the area you are interested in hiking and see what awaits you! Before you hit the trail, visit the Coconino National Forest website for maps and information.

Red Rock State ParkRed Rock State Park is a family-oriented 5-mile network of trails with a diverse habitat of plants and wildlife. The Forest Service presents popular talks at the visitor’s center on the natural history of Sedona, and living with our wildlife neighbors. They also offer the following guided hikes and walks: Geology Hike, Moonlight Hikes, Bird Walks and Nature Walks. To see the Schedule of guided hikes please visit Red Rock State Park.

Bell Rock PathwayThis trail takes you on a scenic journey of the red rocks with panoramic views that can’t be beat. This hiking trail is marked as easy to moderate and there are other paths and trails that lead off of the Pathway for you and your family to explore.The Pathway is about 7 miles round trip and it is important to remember it is not a loop. Keep that in mind while you are enjoying your hike and remember you have to hike back the distance you go in. You do not have to hike the entire pathway to enjoy some great views of the red rocks. As soon as you walk the first 10-15 minutes in, you will be close enough to feel the energy of Bell Rock. Desert flora surround you on the hike and you never know what surprises await you as the desert blooms. Directions: From the junction of Routes 89A and 179 in Sedona, take 179 south 3.6 miles to a paved turnout and trailhead parking on the left (east) at milepost 309.8, .2 miles south of the entrance to the United Methodist Church for the northern trailhead.

West Fork Oak Creek TrailThere are a number of reasons why West Fork is the most popular trail on the Coconino National Forest. You’ll know some of them once you’ve strolled beside the pleasant little stream that ripples along the canyon floor and looked up, way up, at the dizzying cliffs that tower above it. You’ll know even more if you come in the spring, when migrating songbirds decorate the trees with flashes of brilliance, or in the fall when pastel leaves float in clear reflecting pools under a canopy of solid color. To access the West Fork Oak Creek Trail drive north 9.5 miles from Sedona to about halfway between milepost 385 and 384. The trailhead is on the west (left) side of the highway down a paved lane that leads behind a few creek side houses.

Dead Horse Ranch State Park (Cottonwood)The beautiful park with the unfortunate name sits on over 400 acres in Cottonwood Arizona and is right next to the Verde River Greenway State Natural Area. The temperatures at the park are often mild, due the park’s elevation, and make it an ideal place for outdoor activities. This state park is a short distance from Sedona and has numerous hiking trails, not to mention trails for mountain biking and horse back riding. You can even take along a nice picnic lunch for your family and take in the scenic view at any of the picnic tables around the park. Directions from Sedona:Head south on West Arizona 89A S/N State Route 89A toward Forest Rd, tt the traffic circle, continue straight onto West Arizona 89A,turn right onto East Mingus Ave, turn right onto North Main St and right onto N 10th Strett to the park.

It is always safer to hike with others. Always let somebody know what trails you plan on hiking.

Wear suitable clothing and shoes for hiking.

Don’t leave the trail. The ecosystem of the desert is fragile and leaving even a footprint can damage it.

The trails in Sedona and the Verde Valley are very traveled and it is unlikely that you will come across a rattler, however if your tromp around off the trails you are asking for trouble! With that said be aware of your surroundings and respect the wildlife of Sedona!

Bring a camera to take some amazing shots.

Know your limitations.

Don’t rush your hiking experience. Take your time and enjoy the scenery.

Spring is going to be a very busy time in Sedona, We are offering some great Sedona hotel deals that will save you money on your stay at the Inn of Sedona in April that also include popular Sedona tours or attractions. To see how to save money on your Sedona Vacation please visit the Best Western Plus Inn of Sedona Vacation Packages.